October 7, 1946 – May 9, 2022
Deaconess Dian Smith was born October 7, 1946 to the late Charles David Fowler, Sr. and Ann Young Fowler in Richmond, VA. After a period of illness, Dian transitioned from earth to heaven on Monday May 9, 2022. Dian accepted Christ at an early age at Moore Street Missionary Baptist Church.
Dian’s formal education was through Richmond Public Schools. Dian was an outstanding scholar who participated in many activities and clubs. She adopted several passions throughout her life’s journey. First was the majorette squad at Maggie L. Walker High School. She went on to further her education at Virginia Union University where completed her Bachelor’s in English education with a double major in German. She also achieved Master degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University as she delighted in learning. Now the second passion, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a sisterhood beyond all sisterhoods!
As her professional life journey unfolded, education was her life’s work. Dian has had numerous accolades from the State of Virginia for her efforts in promoting excellence from her students. Dian’s teaching career spanned 40 plus years. Her love and dedication to her students was endless.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnnie Smith, Jr.; son, Bernard Edward Johnson III; parents, Deacon Charles Fowler, Sr. and Deaconess Ann Young Fowler; and her brother, Charles David Fowler, Jr. Dian is survived by her daughter, Angela Marie Cunningham; three grandchildren, Tyra Cunningham, Alia Cunningham and Destiny Epps; one great grandson, Talif Bloomfield; sister, Alice Fowler Jones (Percy); devoted cousin, Stanley Abrams; host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and loving friends.
“Let the work I’ve done speak for me!”
Services will be held 12:00 Noon, Saturday, May 14, 2022 at Metropolitan Baptist Church, 1021 Halifax Street, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Lamont Hobbs, Pastor and Rev. Leroy Evans, eulogist. The interment to follow at Riverview Cemetery.
J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.